Computer Forensics (Digital Forensics)
Computer forensics, also known as digital forensics, is the application of computer related knowledge and skills to legal problems involving digital evidence. Those problems can involve issues such as;
| • | The evaluation of computer usage for conformance with various standards like - organizational codes of conduct, - commercial contract terms and conditions, - employment contracts (i.e. non-compete or non-solicitation covenants), - laws and regulations; |
| • | Evidence authentication; |
| • | Identification of artifacts supporting a claim or defense; |
| • | The detection and recovery of hidden evidence or efforts to obscure evidence or improper computer usage; |
| • | The detection of efforts to obscure or hide improper activity or computer usage; |
| • | Validation of data productions in litigation; or |
| • | Identification or confirmation of evidence spoliation. |
Considering the extent to which electronically stored information (ESI) is now utilized, a computer forensic expert is essential to every litigation. Using a computer forensic expert provides numerous benefits in today's litigation lifecycle like:
- Getting the ESI evidence admitted because of his familiarity and use of the accepted collection and analysis procedures that are typically not practiced by client personnel;
- Recognizing key artifacts or trends that are more easily and quickly spotted by an expert than by less knowledgeable litigation team members that may not know they exist or how to interpret them;
- Locating key artifacts more quickly than litigation team members that are less proficient in using automated tools or that may not even possess the powerful and specialized tools used by computer forensic experts;
- Rebutting opposing party claims or defenses that, while superficially appealing, are unsupported by more penetrating forensic analysis; and
- Rebutting opinions by opposing computer forensic experts that lack appropriate foundation or are totally erroneous.
Even outside the litigation arena an experienced forensic expert can bring valuable experience to the design and development of organizational policies and procedures for computer security and usage.
Since 1991 K&F has blended its advanced technology with reliable forensic techniques and industry related experience to deliver revealing analysis and innovative solutions at a highly competitive price. In addition, firm principles have testified as forensic experts at deposition, motion hearings and at trial in numerous state and federal courts.
The firm often applies its skills in various situations like trade secret theft, bankruptcy, government contracts, construction contracts and employment matters. When it really matters.